Current Conditions

Alerts

Yellow leaves on trees surrounding a road with a jagged peak in the background
Throughout the next few months, lower elevations will be sunny and warm while higher elevations will be cold and cloudy. Prepare for both before you visit the parks!

NPS Photo / Emily Fedorko

Time of Transition

This time of year, change is ushered into the Giant Forest and Sierra Nevada. Days are cooler, particularly at the elevation of the sequoia groves. Before you visit, check out these tips to enhance your trip!

Weather

Autumn is a wonderful time to visit giant sequoias, but it can be very cool and below freezing especially in the morning or evening. Weather is also variable this time of year, including snow and cold rain. Plan ahead by packing multiple layers of clothing so that you can adjust to warmer or colder conditions. Check the weather forecast before you head out!

Driving Mountain Roads

Snow is a possibility in the sequoia groves and rain or snow can occur in the foothills. Be prepared to drive winding roads with poor visibility and reduced traction. Tire chains or cables are often required on park roads from fall through spring. Prepare for your visit by learning about tire chains and winter driving. During fall through spring, we recommend that you carry chains or cables in your car, regardless of conditions. Check out our current road conditions and learn about driving mountain roads before arriving.

Upcoming Seasonal Closures

As the parks transition to winter operations, there will be multiple seasonal closures of roads, areas, campgrounds, visitor centers. Please double check operating hours before arriving!

Rivers

It can be tempting to visit the rivers, but it is very dangerous. Drowning is the leading cause of death in the parks. Rain and melting snow from the mountains makes river waters swift, icy cold, and extremely hazardous. Learn more about river safety.
 
A smoke-filled vista of mountain ridges as seen from the Giant Forest webcam.
A smoke-filled vista as seen from the Giant Forest webcam on August 18, 2024.

Air Quality

 
 

Area Specific Conditions

 

 

Map of Current Trail, Road, and Area Closures at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

 
 
 

Click on a line or point for the name of the closed location.

  • Road and trail closures are shown in red.
  • Individual point closures are shown with black pins.
  • Area closures are shown in yellow.

Closures can change at any time and may differ from what is shown on this map.

 
  • black and white symbol featuring a combination of cloud, sun, lightning, snow, and rain
    Weather Forecasts

    Check the weather forecasts for different areas of the parks

  • A red car drives on a narrow road through sequoia trees.
    Road Conditions

    Check for current road conditions throughout the parks

  • A river flows through a steep rocky canyon. Photo by Naoko Otani.
    River Safety

    The rivers in these parks are powerful and cold, and drowning is our most frequent cause of death. Learn more about river safety.

  • An elderly man standing up from a wheelchair next to a ranger.
    Accessibility

    We offer recreational opportunities suited for a wide range of abilities, including exhibits, walking, camping, and shuttle transportation.

  • A group of campers relaxing around a fire.
    learn more about
    Fire Restrictions

    Learn what level of fire restrictions the parks have enacted and what they entail.

  • A forest landscape with a yellow sign that reads
    The Busy Season in the Parks

    Weekends and holidays are busy! Learn how to enjoy your trip to the parks without the chaos.

Last updated: November 2, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

47050 Generals Highway
Three Rivers, CA 93271

Phone:

559 565-3341

Contact Us